Prom 2.0

A few weeks ago I wrote about attending the YSB Prom. I had an amazing time. I went with some of my best girl friends, danced all night, and was home by 11 since most of us had work the next day.

This week I attended a “real” prom — As in a high school prom. On top of that, I was taken by one of my brother’s friends…So basically hung out with bro and his best friends for the night…Two “miracles” in on night.

Let me start by saying it was SO much fun. And I couldn’t have asked for a nicer or more fun date. And it made me realize that high school proms and social media proms really are NOT the same thing. First off, there was the prom-posal…A hysterical powerpoint presentation sent to my brother to “approve” the date. Then forwarded to me. You have to love a guy with a good sense of humor AND one who makes sure his friend is cool with it before asking his little sis.

Next I seriously stressed on the dress. Senior girls wear long dresses. Everyone else wears short. Unlike the social media prom I was worried about whether it was formal enough, appropriate, too showy and whether my date would like it without making my brother hate it.

Then there was the corsage. And boutonnière. I may be able to find the best filter for a post but pinning a rose on a guys lapel is no easy feat! Having mastered that about 30 of us got on one bus and went over to the prom. Teachers supervising is a bit different from social media chaperones. You could tell they had watchful eyes and no one dared misbehave. Though we weren’t “locked in” no one was allowed to leave until the end. And no one danced. Instead people hung out chatting in groups. Having fun, reminiscing and waiting for the after prom.

What I loved watching was the camaraderie of everyone there. Though a social media prom is a great time to catch up with people you haven’t seen and make new friends, there was something really special about watching a group of Juniors and Seniors who spent all day every day together, some since pre-school. Friends, best friends, classmates, teammates. They knew each other, respected each other and clearly supported one another. Everyone included me, I’ve known most of them since my brother was in 7th grade, but while I was a guest, they were like family to each other.

Post prom we all changed into comfy clothes and head to one of the seniors houses for a post-prom party. Here everyone loosened up now that they were out from under the watchful eyes of their teachers, and started to dance and have fun.

My brother and my date were the perfect combo. My date always made sure I had what I needed, was included in the conversation, and felt wanted. My brother gave me space, but made sure I was comfortable and happy to be there. I couldn’t have asked for two better boys that night. And while these seniors were college bound and ready to reminisce all night, I had work in the am so headed home around 1130.

Prom isn’t just a dance or dressing up. It’s about sharing lifelong friendships and memories…Thanks to my brother and his friend for letting me be a part of it.